2022 Audi S3 vs. 2022 Volkswagen Golf R

iSeeCars' unbiased and data-driven comparison of the 2022 Audi S3 and 2022 Volkswagen Golf R contrasts the two cars across a broad spectrum of vehicle specifications to determine which car is better. In addition to comparing pricing and specs, iSeeCars uses all the ratings, rankings, and insights from its comprehensive analyses of each vehicle model, including calculations of reliability, safety, depreciation, value retention, and the vehicle's projected lifetime recalls (based on analyzing over 25 billion data points). This in-depth evaluation is used to identify which vehicle represents a better overall choice for shoppers who are considering both the 2022 Audi S3 and the 2022 Volkswagen Golf R.

When comparing the 2022 Audi S3's and the 2022 Volkswagen Golf R's specifications and ratings, the 2022 Audi S3 has the advantage in the areas of typical lower range of pricing for used cars, and fuel efficiency. The 2022 Volkswagen Golf R has the advantage in the areas of resale value, interior volume and base engine power. Based on this comparison of the 2022 Audi S3's and the 2022 Volkswagen Golf R's specifications and ratings, the 2022 Volkswagen Golf R is a better car than the 2022 Audi S3.

Pricing: A used 2022 Audi S3 ranges from $37,355 to $46,909 while a used 2022 Volkswagen Golf R is priced between $38,553 to $47,999.

Resale/Retained Value: Looking at the 5-year depreciation rate for both models, the 2022 Audi S3 loses 42.8 percent of its value and the 2022 Volkswagen Golf R loses 33.2 percent of its value. This means the 2022 Volkswagen Golf R retains 9.6 percentage points more of its value and has the advantage of higher resale value versus the 2022 Audi S3.

Engine Power and Fuel Efficiency Comparison: For engine performance, the 2022 Audi S3’s base engine makes 306 horsepower, and the 2022 Volkswagen Golf R base engine makes 315 horsepower. The S3 is rated to deliver an average of 27 miles per gallon, with a highway range of 464 miles. The Golf R is rated to deliver an average of 23 miles per gallon, with a highway range of 406 miles. This gives the 2022 Audi S3 the fuel efficiency and maximum range advantage over the 2022 Volkswagen Golf R. Both models use premium unleaded.

Passenger Space Comparison: The 2022 Volkswagen Golf R, a compact car, has the advantage of offering more interior volume, reflected in more front head room, front shoulder room, rear head room, rear shoulder room, and cargo space. The 2022 Audi S3, a subcompact car, has the advantage in the area of rear leg room. The 2022 Audi S3 and 2022 Volkswagen Golf R are comparable in regards to front leg room.

Safety Ratings: When comparing crash test ratings from NHTSA, both the 2022 Audi S3 and the 2022 Volkswagen Golf R have the same average safety rating of 5 out of 5 Stars.